Hp Hp Aj864A 3Gb 8 Port Sas 20 Switch Module — SAS Switch for Storage Networking (HP)

How Much Does HP AJ864A 3GB 8 Port SAS 2.0 Switch Module Cost in 2026?

As of July 2026, the HP AJ864A 3GB 8 Port SAS 2.0 Switch Module typically ranges between $115 for a used, refurbished unit in condition grade B. Refurbished units from vendors like Ferrotec and Axus Technology are commonly available in this price range, offering 40–60% savings compared to the original manufacturer’s new pricing, which can exceed $250.

Condition tiers can affect pricing slightly, but due to the part’s age and limited demand for new units, the price range remains relatively narrow. A failed or poorly refurbished module can lead to storage system downtime, which in enterprise environments can cost upwards of $1,500 per hour.

It’s important to note that while $115 is the average, units with higher condition grades (A or A–) may command a slight premium, and parts with unknown or unverified refurbishment history should be avoided. Always request a detailed refurbishment report from the seller to ensure the part meets your operational needs and avoids costly failures down the line.

HP AJ864A 3GB 8 Port SAS 2.0 Switch Module Specifications and Compatible Tools

The HP AJ864A 3GB 8 Port SAS 2.0 Switch Module is a storage switch designed for use in high-availability storage systems. It supports SAS 2.0 standards and provides up to 3 Gbps data transfer speeds across eight ports. The module is typically rated for 100,000 RF-hours of operation and is commonly used in HP ProLiant servers and storage arrays from the early 2010s.

This module is compatible with HP storage systems like the HP MSA 2040 and MSA 2040 G2, typically deployed between 2011 and 2015. It is not compatible with newer SAS 3.0 or NVMe-based systems, such as the HP MSA 1040. Using an incompatible module in a SAS 3.0 system can lead to performance degradation or system failure, potentially causing hours of downtime and thousands in repair costs.

While the exact number of supported devices is not always specified, the module is typically used in configurations with up to 128 drives. Always verify compatibility with your specific system before installation. If the module fails in the field, it can cause storage array downtime, which in mission-critical environments can cost over $2,000 per hour.

What to Check Before Buying a Used HP AJ864A 3GB 8 Port SAS 2.0 Switch Module in 2026

1. Verify the Production Year: The AJ864A was typically manufactured between 2010 and 2013. Units older than 2010 may have exceeded their expected lifecycle and are more prone to failure.

2. Check Refurbishment History: Ensure the module has been fully tested and reconditioned. Look for a detailed refurbishment report that includes SAS link testing and firmware updates. Modules without this documentation should be avoided.

3. Test with SAS Loopback or Diagnostic Tools: Use a SAS loopback plug or diagnostic tool like HP’s Smart Storage Administrator to verify port functionality. A failed port can render the module useless in a multi-drive array.

4. Reject If: The module has more than 120,000 RF-hours or shows signs of physical damage. These are strong indicators of potential failure and can lead to system downtime costing $1,000–$3,000 per hour.

5. Confirm Compatibility: Double-check that the module is intended for SAS 2.0 systems and not a SAS 3.0 or NVMe configuration. Installing it in the wrong system can cause data corruption or hardware failure.

A poorly tested or incompatible module can lead to storage system failure, resulting in extended downtime and costly repairs. Always source from a reputable vendor and request full documentation before purchase.

FAQ

Q: Can I use the HP AJ864A in a SAS 3.0 system?
A: No. The AJ864A is a SAS 2.0 module and is not compatible with SAS 3.0 systems. Attempting to use it in a system like the HP MSA 1040 can lead to performance issues or hardware failure, potentially costing $2,000+ in repairs.

Q: Should I buy a used HP AJ864A if it has over 110,000 RF-hours?
A: Yes, but with caution. Modules with up to 110,000 RF-hours are still within the expected operational range. However, anything over 120,000 RF-hours should be rejected, as failure risk increases significantly.

Q: How long can I expect a used HP AJ864A to last in a production environment?
A: A well-refurbished module with under 100,000 RF-hours can typically last 2–4 more years in a controlled environment. Modules with higher hours may fail within 6–12 months, especially under heavy load.

Q: What’s the difference between the AJ864A and the AJ864B?
A: The AJ864B is a 6 Gbps SAS 2.0 module, while the AJ864A is 3 Gbps. The AJ864B is not backward compatible in all systems, so using it in a 3 Gbps environment may require firmware updates or cause instability.

Q: Is it better to buy a new or used HP AJ864A?
A: Used modules from 2010–2013 are typically the best value, offering 40–60% savings over new. New units are rarely available and come at a premium. Used modules with under 100,000 RF-hours and full refurbishment reports are the most reliable option.